Luka Doncic Leads Lakers to Convincing 128-110 Win Over Timberwolves

Luka Doncic delivered a spectacular performance, scoring 49 points—including 32 in the first half—while contributing 11 rebounds and eight assists to guide the Los Angeles Lakers to a commanding 128-110 triumph against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday (Saturday, October 25, Manila time).

Austin Reaves complemented the effort with 25 points and 11 assists, Rui Hachimura added 23 points, and Deandre Ayton contributed 15 as the Lakers secured a win against the team that eliminated them from last season's playoffs. Minnesota, seeded sixth in the Western Conference, had previously defeated the third-seeded Lakers in a five-game series.

Doncic was highly efficient, converting 14 of 23 field goal attempts (60.9%) and making 5 of 12 from beyond the arc, setting a new season high in points. Overall, Los Angeles shot an impressive 59.2% from the floor compared to Minnesota's 46.6%.

Despite approaching a 50-point milestone for the eighth time in his career, Doncic missed one of two free throws with just over three minutes remaining and exited the game shortly after.

On the Timberwolves side, Anthony Edwards led with 31 points, while Julius Randle added 26 points and nine rebounds. The Timberwolves struggled as the Lakers heated up, especially during a dominant second quarter where Los Angeles shot 64.7%, outscoring Minnesota 32-19.

Additional contributions for Minnesota came from Donte DiVincenzo with 13 points and Jaden McDaniels with 10. The Timberwolves are now 1-1 on their season-opening road trip and will host the Eastern Conference champion Indiana Pacers in their home opener on Sunday.

The game’s opening quarter was marked by high scoring and minimal defensive pressure, with Minnesota holding a slight 40-36 edge aided by Edwards’ 14 points. Doncic countered with 23 points, stepping up in the absence of LeBron James, sidelined with sciatica, and Lakers big men Maxi Kleber and Jaxson Hayes, who missed the game due to injuries.

The Lakers surged ahead by closing the first half on a 14-4 run, taking a 68-63 lead into halftime while maintaining a 60% shooting accuracy compared to Minnesota's 50%.

Extending their advantage in the third quarter, Los Angeles executed a 13-6 run to take a 97-86 lead after a driving layup from Reaves. They maintained control with a 108-94 lead going into the final period, eventually sealing the victory.